When it comes to iconic television romances, few can rival the heartwarming journey of Monica and Chandler (played by Matthew Perry) on the iconic series 'Friends.' Their relationship, a true example of stability and affection, stands in stark contrast to the rollercoaster that is Ross and Rachel.
On October 28, 2023, the world bid farewell to Matthew Perry. Today, we celebrate not only his comedic brilliance but also the indomitable spirit of Monica and Chandler's love. From friends to lovers and the creation of a beautiful family, it reminds us that it's perfectly fine to be quirky, to treasure your partner as your dearest friend, to confront life as a united front, and, in a world of Rosses, to embrace your inner 'Chandler'.
10 Monica and Chandler moments that left us all in awe
The One With the Birth
Before the flame of romance ignited between them, Monica and Chandler shared a humorous moment in the Season 1 episode, "The One With the Birth." In the midst of Ross welcoming his son, Ben, Monica expressed a desire for a family of her own one day. Chandler playfully suggested a marriage and baby pact: if they both remained single at the age of 40, they'd have a child together. Little did they know that this jest would foreshadow the deep connection that would later blossom between them.
The One at the Beach
The Season 3 finale brings us on a beachside adventure. Monica's lament about her single status sparks Chandler's playful proposal—a moment that teases the idea of them as a couple. Chandler's charm and wit, coupled with Monica's infectious laughter, make this a turning point in their relationship.
The One With Ross's Wedding
Season 4 graces us with one of the series' most iconic scenes, as Monica and Chandler's romance blossoms in the heart of London. In "The One With Ross' Wedding," the stage was set in London, where Monica grappled with being mistaken for Ross's mother. It was Chandler's heartfelt comment, "You're the most beautiful woman in most rooms," that marked the beginning of their passionate love story. What began as a seemingly casual fling turned out to be the genesis of a beautiful relationship.
The One With All The Thanksgivings
Monica and Chandler's history dates back to their high school days when Chandler was Ross's college roommate. This episode explores their early interactions, highlighting Monica's attraction to Chandler from the moment they met. It's not just the romantic undertones that make this episode special; it's the moment when Monica, in a delightful and goofy gesture, her spontaneous, turkey-on-the-head dance to uplift Chandler's spirits and Chandler's accidental 'I love you' is a beautiful moment that encapsulates the depth of their bond.
The One Where Everybody Finds Out
Monica and Chandler's secret relationship finally comes to light, and in true "Friends" fashion, it's filled with comedic absurdity. Chandler's willingness to go along with Joey, Rachel, and Phoebe's scheme to make their relationship public is an example of how far he is willing to go for things that make Monica happy. Later, Chandler succumbed to the pressure of the act and professed his genuine love for Monica. Moments later, she reciprocated, sealing their love with a kiss.
The One With The Joke
This episode captures one of the sweetest moments in the relationship between Chandler and Monica. To defend her honour, Chandler boldly declares in front of Phoebe and Rachel that Monica is easy-going, despite knowing it's not entirely true.
However, his heartfelt confession following the charade, "I like…maintaining you," epitomises his deep understanding of and affection for her.
His words go beyond placating her image; they acknowledge her passion and his role in soothing her anxieties
The One With The Proposal
This double-length episode is all about Monica and Chandler taking their relationship to the next level. The proposal is one of the most iconic moments in sitcom history. Amidst all the chaos, misunderstandings, and unexpected appearances of Monica's ex-boyfriend Richard, their love shines brightly.
In a scene that never fails to bring tears, Chandler and Monica's long and winding journey culminates in a heartwarming proposal. Both of them get down on one knee to propose.
Monica initiates the proposal in their candlelit apartment, but overwhelmed by emotion, Chandler seizes the moment to declare his love, "You make me happier than I ever thought I could be. And if you let me, I will spend the rest of my life trying to make you feel the same way." Monica tearfully accepts, setting the bar impossibly high for all proposals to come.
The One With Monica And Chandler's Wedding
Another double-length episode encapsulates the challenges Monica and Chandler face as they prepare for their wedding. Their commitment to each other shines through as they overcome numerous hurdles, from a Greek Orthodox minister to Chandler's doubts about becoming "The Bings."
Yet what sets the story of their wedding apart was Chandler's heartfelt realisation that he wanted to marry Monica the moment he saw her walking down the aisle, which is a touching example of their destined love.
"I thought this was going to be the most difficult thing I had to do, but when I saw you walking down the aisle I realised how simple it was. I love you. Any surprises that come our way, it's okay, because I will always love you. You are the person I was meant to spend the rest of my life with."
The One With The Birth Mother
In the final season, the episode where they meet Erica while trying to adopt brings out their genuine and unfiltered love. Amidst adoption mix-ups, Chandler's guilt drove him to confess their true identities to Erica, risking it all.
Chandler's heartfelt honesty about Monica's incredible qualities shows the depth of their love throughout the scene, "My wife's an incredible woman. She's loving, devoted, and caring. And don't tell her I said this but the woman's always right... I love my wife more than anything in this world. And I... It kills me that I can't give her a baby... I really want a kid. And when that day finally comes, I'll learn how to be a good dad. But my wife—she's already there. She's a mother... without a baby."
His emotional plea, exposing their deepest desires, swayed Erica's heart. Their dreams of parenthood, uncertain a moment ago, were now within reach. Chandler's playful question, "You still want that baby?" ignited Monica's smile and a joyful embrace, sealing their unwavering love and family dreams.
The Last One
The series finale, aptly named "The Last One," brought the ultimate emotional moment. Monica and Chandler, who had faced numerous challenges, including Monica's infertility, embraced the joy of adoption. They welcomed twins, Jack and Erica, into their loving family, marking another heartwarming beginning to their remarkable journey as a family.
Love, they teach us, can be as simple and heartwarming as a high-five.